Arts & culture

Scotland's arts and culture offering is so much more than just bagpipes, tartan and thistles. Don't get us wrong, we are mighty proud of our cultural icons, but when you consider that Scotland is home to the world's festival captial, outstanding summer music festivals, blockbuster movie locations, breathtaking art and architecture and a captivating literary festival, you'll realise that those aspects of our cultural landscape are only just the tip of the iceberg.

Fear not - arts and culture in Scotland isn't necessarily high-brow, and it is certainly never yawn-inducing. Our attractions are bold, engaging and often completely unique.

Held in communities across the country, Highland games are thrilling spectacles of tradition, colour and passion. See heavy athletes toss the caber, graceful Highland dancers, and pipe band marches. Maybe you'll even join in a tug-of-war? It's a day-out that'll definitely put a smile on your face.

With boutique festivals like Eden Festival and Belladrum Tartan Heart, we pride ourselves on putting on a great show of music lovers here in Scotland. Have an island adventure at the likes of Tiree Music Festival or HebCelt on the Isle of Lewis.

Scotland's capital hosts five festivals in August including the legendary Fringe and the high-brow Edinburgh International Festival. The Edinburgh International Book Festival offers pocket of calm during this high-octane period while the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo ensures every night goes off with a bang.

Glasgow is home to iconic venues, such as the King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, the Barrowland Ballroom and the SSE Hydro arena, as well an awesome winter music festival. Celtic Connections take place early in the year, showcasing folk, roots and world music from international and home-grown artists.

There are plenty of chances to hear traditional Gaelic music and you're bound to find a ceilidh or two where you can dance the night away! The Royal National Mòd, the biggest festival of Gaelic culture takes place in October, while the Blas Festival sees events held across the Highlands.

Scotland's cities and towns regularly play host to everything from stellar West End shows to quality touring productions. The country also boasts its own national performing arts companies, including Scottish Ballet, Scottish Opera and the National Theatre of Scotland.

Top 16 cultural gems

Fancy yourself a bit of a culture vulture? With so many cultural riches to pick from in Scotland, it's hard to know where to start. Here are some of Scotland's most popular places to visit, such as a floating former royal residence, the world's oldest surviving music hall, or a pair of 30 m-high horse head sculptures. You don't see that every day, do you?